The Republicans retained the control of the House of Representatives and the Senate, albeit with a reduced majority. Mr. Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, defeated Ms. Hillary Clinton of the Democratic Party to become President of the United States (see note).

The presidential election campaign pushed congressional elections to the background. Mr. Trump, a wealthy businessman, pledged to "Make America Great Again". He promised to create more jobs, tighten US borders and renegotiate free trade deals. Ms. Clinton promised reforms that would give unauthorised immigrants a path to full citizenship. Mr. Trump also promised to "repeal and replace" Obamacare (the federal health insurance system introduced under the Obama Administration in 2010). Ms. Clinton praised Obamacare but promised to block unreasonable premium increases.

Note:
An American president is chosen by a group of electors known as the electoral college, which currently comprises 538 people. On election day, Americans cast votes for electors. In 2016, candidates needed to win 270 to be elected President. Mr. Trump won 306 electors against Ms. Clinton's 232, although Ms. Clinton won the popular vote.

Date of previous elections: 4 November 2014

Timing of election: Upon normal expiry

Expected date of next elections: November 2018

Number of seats at stake: 435 (full renewal)

Number of candidates: Not available.

Percentage of women candidates: Not available.
167 women won party primary.

Number of parties contesting the election: 2*
*Only two parties, the Democrats and Republicans, fielded Congressional candidates in all 50 US states and the territories.

Number of parties winning seats: 2

Alternation of power: Yes

Number of parties in government: 1

Names of parties in government: Republican Party

STATISTICS

Voter turnout

Round no 1

8 November 2016

Number of registered electorsVotersBlank or invalid ballot papersValid votes

Notes

Distribution of votes

Round no 1

Political Group

Candidates

Votes

%

Republican Party

Democratic Party

Distribution of seats

Round no 1

Political Group

Total

Republican Party

241

Democratic Party

194

Distribution of seats according to sex

MenWomenPercent of women

3528319.08%

Distribution of seats according to age

Distribution of seats according to profession

Comments

Note: In addition, there are five women among the six non-voting members.